The World Cup is forcing changes even on one of the world’s most advanced venues. SoFi Stadium is undergoing a major transformation just for 2026, but a growing labor dispute is casting a shadow over the project.

Work begins on SoFi Stadium playing surface

One of the key elements of preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is the complete overhaul of the pitch at SoFi Stadium, as the standard NFL configuration does not meet international football requirements. The venue normally features artificial turf, but for the tournament it will be covered with natural grass specially imported for the competition. In order to comply with FIFA pitch width regulations (around 74 yards, or 68 metres), part of the stadium seating in the corners had to be physically removed to expand the field of play.

More than 400 seats were taken out, allowing the playing area to be widened and a full-size football pitch to be installed. The layered pitch structure includes a drainage system, vacuum-based ventilation layer, and lighting systems designed to support grass growth. The aim is to maintain natural turf inside a closed stadium environment—one of the most complex engineering challenges of the project.

The natural grass surface is designed as a temporary but highly advanced system. The substrate will include humidity and temperature control systems, as well as lighting rigs supporting photosynthesis so the grass can grow despite limited natural light. Contractors say the design should maintain pitch quality throughout the tournament, despite intensive use. Every stage—from installation to maintenance—has been tightly scheduled, as the stadium remains operational until the final weeks before the World Cup.

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— SoFi Stadium (@SoFiStadium) July 11, 2026

Stadium capacity and seating layout changes at SoFi Stadium

The modifications affect not only the pitch but also the seating structure. SoFi Stadium, which normally holds around 70,000 spectators, will be temporarily reconfigured to meet FIFA requirements. The removal of corner stands not only allows the pitch to be widened, but also changes viewing angles for fans. As a result, spectators will be positioned closer to the field, aiming to create a more football-style atmosphere rather than a typical NFL experience.

During the tournament, the stadium will accommodate approximately 69,000 seats, with additional VIP boxes and premium areas increasing its commercial capacity. However, FIFA requirements go beyond capacity—they also demand specific stadium geometry, which has driven these structural changes.

© Redspork02 (CC BY-SA 4.0) | SoFi Stadium is undergoing a temporary transformation for the 2026 World Cup, including natural grass installation and seating adjustments.

SoFi Stadium changes extend to naming rights

SoFi Stadium is home to both the Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers, which significantly complicates the renovation schedule. Work must be carefully coordinated with the NFL calendar, as the venue continues to host games and concerts. The adaptation process covers not only the pitch but also technical infrastructure, security systems, and logistics areas. All modifications must be reversible, as the stadium will return to its NFL configuration after the tournament.

During the World Cup, the venue will operate under the name Los Angeles Stadium, with all commercial branding temporarily removed in line with FIFA regulations.

© Grzegorz Kaliciak | At the same time, a labor dispute is growing, with strike threats potentially affecting preparations for the tournament.

Labour dispute and strike threat during SoFi Stadium works

Alongside the construction work, labour tensions are rising. The UNITE HERE Local 11 union, representing around 2,000 stadium workers, has threatened strike action ahead of the tournament. The dispute focuses primarily on working conditions and job security.

At the centre of the conflict is the presence of ICE on stadium premises. The union is demanding that immigration enforcement agencies do not carry out operations at the venue during the World Cup. Food service and stadium operations workers argue that without them, events of this scale could not function. Union representatives stress that staff are the backbone of the stadium, essential for both matches and fan services.